Provost Workman stated that the current mission was revised about five years ago and was advanced by faculty with different disciplines, ranks and tenure. He noted that the Board of Trustees and the Board of Governors had evolved, as well as the academic environment; thus, it was timely to review statements to make sure these accurately represented the institution.

Provost Workman observed that education should be at the heart of the mission, with an emphasis to discovery and application of knowledge. He clarified that faculty should be committed to research, but first and foremost to student learning.

Provost Workman mentioned that 70 percent of UNF’s students remained in the region, making clear that the future of the city was dependent on the quality of students the institution graduated. He noted that the current mission identified inclusivity and a broad range of students, committed to cultural, social and civic growth.

Provost Workman clarified the difference between the vision and mission, stating that the mission should describe what the institution is and what the current commitments are. And the vision should be where the institution is to move. He spoke about the current mission, explaining that UNF’s peers identified the institution as regional and metropolitan. As for the vision, UNF is a destination institution for students, comprehensive and grounded in liberal arts and sciences. Additionally, UNF’s campus maintains a communal spirit and beautiful presence.

Provost Workman spoke about the Board of Governor’s goals and UNF’s responsibility to address those goals. He noted that the institution could define a purpose within those goals, upholding differentiation and exception.

President Delaney talked about mission statements from UNF’s peers and Chair Taylor discussed how those peers were chosen. Chair Taylor asked trustees to join the discussion.

Trustees discussed the current vision and mission statement, with a consensus that Provost Workman would consider their thoughts and return for additional discussion. However, they did not think we should shift our goals to perfectly match the Board of Governors’ goals.

Item 5 Adjournment

Chair Taylor thanked trustees for their time and contribution. He adjourned the workshop.